Articular cartilage loss is an unmitigated risk of human spaceflight

Microgravity and space radiation are hazards of spaceflight that have deleterious effects on articular cartilage. Since it is not widely monitored or protected through dedicated countermeasures, articular cartilage loss is an unmitigated risk of human spaceflight. Spaceflight-induced cartilage loss will affect an astronaut’s performance during a mission and long-term health after a mission. Addressing concerns for cartilage health will be critical to the continued safe and successful exploration of space.